HP HOTELS IN THE HEADLINES

Hotel Business Editor-In-Chief Christina Trauthwein sits down with Kerry Ranson for a video interview to discuss the latest news from HP Hotels, including the company's emerging presence in key states, technology advancements and its Executive Advisory Council.

Hotel Management magazine's Executive Roundtable Series this month features Kerry Ranson who, along with a group of eight other high-level industry executives, shares his views on how the industry is targeting tomorrow's travelers, particularly millennials and Gen Z

Hotel Management magazine's Executive Roundtable Series this month features Mike Hines who, along with a group of eight other high-level industry executives, shares his views on the state of the limited service property segment.

Hoteliers nationwide are aggressively analyzing and optimizing housekeeping costs and efficiencies in hopes of finding savings on this key expense, wherever and whenever possible. For some, harnessing new technologies, processes and performance metrics are core elements of these initiatives, which are already yielding dividends.

There are just so many hotels in any particular market-be it geographic or a niche category-that if a management company wants to grow its business, it must expand into new areas. But how can a company decide what the right market is for them? Kerry Ranson shares his thoughts on the factors that drive the decision making process.

As the hospitality cycle lengthens, hoteliers need to come up with new ideas and approaches to attract business.

HP Hotels has found that investing in new technology has been the linchpin for insuring operational excellence across its portfolio and developing a workforce that embraces supporting each other as the company continues to grow.

Marty Martin, corporate director of business systems and analysis at HP Hotels, said in an email interview that mobile technology has come a long way, and cloud-based software has replaced many of the old paper systems.

He added that by putting locked and secured mobile devices in the hands of every room attendant, maintenance technician and supervisor, teams can communicate in real time, instantly respond to guest requests, monitor labor on a time and motion basis and promote team member recognition "in a way that has never been possible in the past."

HP Hotels has taken calculated measures to ensure technology doesn't lag and systems can be run offline if needed, he said.

In this position, Rosenberg will have responsibilities for day-to-day operational execution of HP Hotels' growing portfolio of Select Service and Full-Service assets. He has more than 20 years of experience in the industry. This includes time spent in senior management roles with Interstate Hotels and Resorts and Noble Investment Group.

As hospitality organizations grow and add executive talent, a key challenge is to do so in a way that adds new capabilities, as intended, supports business initiatives and sustains the group's core beliefs.

Hotel Interactive feature story takes a look at the creation of the HP Hotels Advisory Council and describes its role in the development of the company's growth strategy going forward.

Originally from Israel, Liad is a lifelong hospitality enthusiast. He began working in the hospitality industry as an intern at the iconic Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami. Since then, Liad has held several positions in hospitality, sales and sports management.

Michael Capizzi has joined HP Hotels to serve as the company's Vice President of Hotel Accounting. In this role, Michael will oversee and be responsible for all aspects of the Hotel Accounting process while interacting with Operations Management Teams at both the Hotel and Corporate levels, as well as cultivating on-going relationships with current and future Owners and Ownership groups. In addition, Michael will be instrumental in the fortification of HP Hotels' Internal Controls compliance processes at both the Hotel and Corporate levels.

Nearly 1,900 leaders representing 900 major brands, management companies, REITs, ownership groups, and those doing business in the hospitality space gathered in Phoenix, for the 24th annual Lodging Conference. Lodging magazine spoke with several industry executives there, including HP Hotels Chairman Mike Hines, to get their thoughts on industry trends.

In a move that is unprecedented, HP Hotels has assembled a team of experienced, accomplished and highly respected hospitality industry professionals to provide insights and recommendations to the company's executive team as it builds a strategic plan for continued success in the short, intermediate and long-term, one that insures HP Hotels remains best-in-class as a partner to its ownership groups and brands. Hotel Business magazine takes a close look at the make up and mission of this HP Hotels Advisory Council in an exclusive feature story.

Marty Martin has joined HP Hotels to serve in the company's newly created role of Corporate Director of Business Systems and Analysis.  Marty joined the hospitality industry when he was recruited to be a Finance Manager with IHG

HP Hotels is implementing PurpleCloud Technologies' hotel task software across its entire management portfolio. PurpleCloud Technologies streams real-time data directly to hotel associates to improve the efficiency of hotel operations, while also collecting significant amounts of data to create trend reports for upper-level hotel executives.

Hospitality technology systems are expensive investments, especially when testing and training efforts pile up. If you want to be successful, choose sound partners and thorough beta testing before full implementation.

Hotel News Now talks with Marty to get his thoughts for their story that looks at how hotel owners and operators are prioritizing their technology spending next year.

Tyler Atchison has joined HP Hotels to serve in the position of Regional Director of Revenue Management. In this role, Tyler will be responsible for creating and implementing strategies and analyzing business segments, searching for innovative ways to increase revenue. A leader in the hotel industry for almost 10 years, Tyler has worked for several major brands including Intercontinental Hotels, Marriott International and Hilton and has built a reputation of strong segment strategy, increasing top-line revenue and bottom line profit.

Carrie Hendrickson has joined HP Hotels to serve in the company's newly created position of Regional Director of Sales and Marketing.  In this role, Carrie will be responsible for creating and implementing strategies to grow sales and revenues for the company's hotels with the goal of positioning them as top performers in their respective markets.

It often seems like we are under siege by an endless parade of audits, reviews and critiques. In order to successfully navigate through this maze, it is important to step back once in a while and ask ourselves a simple question: How are we really doing?

"Every touchpoint is important in the transformation because we have to make the story resonate with everyone that interacts with the guests, and we also want the guests to leave and share the story as well," he said. "Our design and concept-building go into our training, culture and sometimes even the uniform designs we use."

Developing hotels in college towns turns out to be a smart investment. College towns also provide constant demand for hotels: accommodating prospective students and housing visiting parents and other academics, to name just three.

Hotel Management magazine released the list of the Top Third Party Management Companies in the United States. With 46 hotels and almost 6,000 rooms HP Hotels is ranked #35 out of 162 total companies!

The DoubleTree by Hilton Oklahoma City Airport, managed by HP Hotels, has won the Pride Award for finishing among the top 5 hotels within the DoubleTree Brand for 2017; Hilton Worldwide made the announcement.  The award recognizes the brand's top performers in the areas of Quality Assurance, Overall Experience, and HHonors Guest Experience.

HP Hotels Congratulates General Manager, Gee Rios and team for their accomplishment!

The Atlanta-based HP Hotels started out as a regional company, managing hotels mostly in the Southeast. Charles Oswald, HP's CEO, says they now have a presence in 17 states and the Caribbean as the company continues its march towards the West Coast, becoming a nationally recognized player.

"HP's plan for 2018 is to continue to work our calculated growth plan and also seek out more opportunities in the upscale and full-service sector where we have had a lot of success and see tremendous value-add opportunities," Charles Oswald, President and CEO of HP Hotels.

"It's a privilege to work with the best ownership groups and management companies in the industry. We know the success happening at your properties is a result of your collective efforts to guide and influence performance. We appreciate you and look forward to our partnership in 2018!" Hilton Worldwide

The 417-room DoubleTree Downtown Tulsa is in a prime location loaded in the business and entertainment district and connected to the Cox Convention Center by sky bridge. Kerry Ranson, Chief Development Officer at HP Hotels, made the announcement. "The energy in downtown Tulsa, being fueled in part by increasing convention business, is real," said Ranson. "Our entire team is looking forward to being part of it all, working with the Tulsa community and positioning the DoubleTree as a hotel of choice in downtown." 

The federal officials have indicated plans to continue interest rate increases each year, but with the rates still historically low, it has not changed the continuing interest in the hotel industry. Mike Hines adds that with the interest rate increase, the lending environment is still favorable to an investor and even with the rate increase he doesn't expect a negative effect on the industry.  He further states that he is not as worried about the increase in interest rates as he is about the increase in labor wages.

HP Hotels has been awarded the management contract for the 155-room Best Western Plus Fort Lauderdale/Dania Beach, FL. The property is owned by IRAS Group out of Miami, FL.

The Best Western Plus hotel is adjacent to Interstate 95 and is close to the beautiful Florida Beaches, Port Everglades Cruise Terminals and the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport. HP is excited to have the Best Western Plus join our growing portfolio.

CBRE noted that "2018 will mark the ninth-consecutive year of rising occupancy, something that we have not seen since the 1990s." The text book trends are being overturned. A new chapter is being written and if the projections hold it will be a record breaking year.

The panel evaluated artificial intelligence and how we can use it to increase the personalization of the customer experience. Kerry spoke on how to partner with the right company that can work with you to bring an ROI to the owners. "Leave the technology piece up to the experts getting to know the nuances behind what's there, but partnering with the right people that are out there and making the right decisions for your assets and the consumers that are coming."

Donald Trump's administration has proposed a plan to fix the countries tax code. Hotel News Now reached out to owners and management companies to get their impression of the proposed change. "The most interesting part to me is the elimination of the tax brackets," says Mike Hines.

The Hotel Business Executive Roundtable discussion was focused on how owners decide when to walk away from a property that is not performing or a Brand that is not delivering. Mike Hines spoke to how the priorities of the owners are ever changing.

The advantages afforded by technology can give smaller hotels the same operational advantages and efficiencies typically seen in large, full-service properties. Spending less and maximizing staff resources, while achieving greater powers (efficiency, accuracy, new functions) seems like a great formula for success and profitability.

The hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is being positioned as a one-of-a-kind property with a local feel. The next renovation phase, scheduled to begin in spring 2018, will include a new restaurant with regionally inspired cuisine and a new 5,000-square-foot ballroom. The hotel's entryway will be expanded into a large open lobby, with a bar and lounge space that will prominently feature Kentucky-made bourbon and craft cocktails.

Mark Alvarez was promoted from General Manager, to Regional Director of Operations for HP Hotels. Mark joins the HP team with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry overseeing various boutique and four-diamond hotels in roles as General Manager and Regional Director of Operations.

Mike Hines' message to hotel operators and suppliers was to understand their clientele as well as their markets. As events take place, be ready to think about the business potential that can arise from the change in the market.

The Hilton Melbourne Rialto Place has joined the HP portfolio, making this the second full-service Hilton to join HP Hotels in the last year.

Richie comments that a new trend has emerged around "clean food" labeling. Hotels have started to label foods that are mostly natural ingredients, no chemical additives, and minimal to no processing to support the customer's desire for healthy options.

Having a higher mix of OTA business is sometimes the result of not having a good long-term plan, Oswald said. Most of the OTA business comes from shorter booking windows which might indicate its necessary to change plans to reduce the reliance on OTAs to fill these reservations.

Kerry Ranson, CDO of HP Hotels, speaks on the Brands trying to convert OTA customers with special discounts when they sign up to become a loyalty member. "The biggest unknown is whether new loyalty members will actually return or if they are one and done just to get the cheap rate."

Charles Oswald, president and CEO of HP Hotels, comments on how hotel guests are more susceptible to hacking

Jason LaBarge, AVP of Operations, speaks on how HP Hotels is moving toward Hotspot 2.0 by upgrading the current WI-FI capabilities in their hotels. HP is taking a proactive approach toward meeting the expectations of tomorrow's guests.

Industry veteran Chris Gennardo joins HP Hotels as Area VP of Sales and Marketing. Chris brings over 25 years of Full Service and Select Service Sales, Marketing and Revenue Management experience to the HP team.

HP Hotels Management Inc. has been awarded the management contract for the 181-room full-service Sheraton Metairie New Orleans Hotel in Metairie, LA. Recently purchased by HC Metairie 1 LLC, an affiliate of Hotel Capital, the hotel will undergo an extensive, multimillion-dollar renovation.

The Hilton Garden Inn Rock Hill, SC earns its 5^th consecutive Outstanding quality inspection from Hilton and received an award commemorating the occasion.

Stephanie Atkisson, AVP of Sales and Marketing for HP Hotels, was featured in Crain's "If I knew then" article in Charlotte, NC.

Charles Oswald, new CEO of HP Hotels, has his eye on the long-term future of HP, with a goal of growing to become a national operator of premium select service and full service brands.
Read More

HP Hotels announced today that Charles Oswald has assumed the role of President and CEO. He was formally President and COO.

Hotel Management magazine released the hotel management survey results of the Top Third Party Management Companies. HP Hotels moved up the list for 2017 ranking 33 out of 147. "We strive to be successful not only in delivering results to the owners for whom we manage, but also as an entire organization.  We are so pleased that HP Hotels has been recognized by the Hotel Management publication for achieving such outstanding growth in 2016."

HP Hotels expands the management team to grow the company's full-service hotel portfolio.

Lodging Magazine published the notable hospitality professionals "On the Move" for October. Chase Rollins was recognized for his recent promotion to a Regional Director of Operations with HP Hotels. Chase was previously the General Manager of the Aloft Oklahoma City/Bricktown.

HP Hotels has been awarded the management contract for the 383-key Nashville Airport Holiday Inn, now Nashville Airport Hotel, which will be renovated and converted to a full-service Hilton.

HP Hotel's 2016 "Best in Class" winners were announced on Thursday, August 25th at the Annual Leadership Conference held in Alexandria, VA.

HP Hotels portfolio expands with the DoubleTree Columbia, SC. The 237 room DoubleTree hotel sits adjacent to interstate I-20 and close to the State Capitol and the University of South Carolina campus.

HP's Hotel of the Year- Hilton Garden Inn West Little Rock's General Manager, Richie Mata, speaks on how his hotel proactively works on preventing technology failures in the meeting space.

"This hotel marks two significant milestones in the continuing growth and evolution of HP Hotels. It is both the first La Quinta Inn and Suites in our portfolio and represents our return to the northeastern United States," said Charles Oswald.

Hilton selects the Hampton Inn Charlotte Uptown, managed by HP Hotels, as a National Geographic showcase hotel for their United States National Parks series. Watch the video: National Geographic Video Charlotte

Hotel News Now interviews HP Hotels President Charles Oswald on whether the industry has reached the peak?

Chairman and CEO Mike Hines and CDO Kerry Ranson discuss growth opportunities for HP and the need to invest in human capital

HP's Chief Development Officer, Kerry Ranson offers insights on Millennial Travelers at the Hotel Business round table

Cambria Hotel & Suites Madison, WI receives another prestigious award

HP CEO, Mike Hines, Discusses Tech Strategies at BITAC 2016

Kerry Ranson back at HP Hotels to aid expansion efforts. "There's an abundant number of opportunities in the marketplace today that fit HP's profile for growth, and we wanted to reinvest back into the corporate team." Charles Oswald, President/COO

HP Hotels, a full-service third-party hotel management company, announced today that it has been awarded the management contract for the 147-room Hilton Garden Inn at the Jack Reardon Civic Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Charles Oswald made the announcement.

HP Hotels announced today that Kerry Ranson has joined the company as Chief Development Officer.

Management Company HP Hotels had a number of brand conversions in 2015, according to President and COO Charles Oswald.

Hotel News Now asked CEOs, owners and more: What should hoteliers concentrate on this year, given where we are in the industry cycle? "From an owner's standpoint, I think you have to look at where you are in the cycle. If you're getting close to your hold period, you might want to be a net seller. From an operating standpoint, it's getting back to the fundamentals (and) making sure you're on top of the details and storing up some cash in the bank for when (the downturn) comes." Charles Oswald, President and COO, HP Hotels

HM Magazine announces the Top Management Companies for 2016. HP Hotels lands in the Top 50 again for 2016.

Birmingham based HP Hotels "HP", is pleased to announce that Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) upscale global brand of hotels recently recognized Hilton Garden Inn West Little Rock as the winner for their outstanding achievements during the past year. The property, owned by YOGIJI INC. and managed by HP Hotels Management Inc., received this honor as a best in class performer from among the brand's 665 hotels worldwide.

Birmingham based HP Hotels "HP", is pleased to announce that Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), one of the world's largest hotel companies recently recognized Cambria Suites in Madison, Wisconsin as a Gold Award winner 2016 for their outstanding achievements in 2015.

Charles Oswald, president and COO of HP Hotels, which manages some Comfort Suites properties, said the impact Vacation Rentals by Choice Hotels has on franchisees depends on Choice's marketing strategy for the platform.

Something curious is afoot. A new wrinkle, a fascination I just can't stop thinking about. And it all plays into human psychology and how we interpret the world. It's the notion of me vs. them that's seemingly programmed into our DNA from pre-historic tribal days. No, I'm not talking about the ladies from The Bachelor, but an interesting observation I saw played out repeatedly during ALIS.

The Campbell House Lexington is nestled in the heart of horse country with local roots spanning more than six decades. Touting more than $10 million in guest room renovations, Rockbridge is proud to pay homage to the hotel's location deep in the heart of Kentucky. Conveniently located minutes from downtown Lexington, the hotel is just four miles from the legendary Keeneland Race Course, and moments away from University of Kentucky and numerous shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

Curio - A Collection by Hilton and HP Hotels Management Inc. today announced the opening of The Campbell House Lexington, nestled in the heart of horse country with local roots spanning more than six decades. As Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) rapidly-expanding global collection of distinctive upscale and luxury hotels, Curio caters to passionate travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences. The Campbell House Lexington, Curio Collection by Hilton is owned and developed by Rockbridge Capital and managed by HP Hotel Management, Inc.

The Admiral Hotel Mobile, a historic, boutique hotel, conveniently located in downtown Mobile, Ala., today joined Curio - A Collection by Hilton, Hilton Worldwide's (NYSE: HLT) rapidly expanding global collection of distinctive upscale and luxury hotels catering to travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences. Originally opened in 1940, The Admiral Hotel Mobile, Curio Collection by Hilton, is located within walking distance of the famed Dauphin Street and has undergone a multi-million dollar renovation to the lobby, restaurants, public spaces and meeting space - in addition to a complete redesign of all guest rooms.

MCLEAN, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) today announced that the iconic Alabama building, The Admiral Hotel Mobile, will join Curio - A Collection by Hilton, a hand-picked global set of upscale and luxury properties embodying the distinct culture and spirit of their local communities. The hotel is scheduled to re-open this fall as The Admiral Hotel Mobile, Curio Collection by Hilton following a multimillion-dollar renovation.

DoubleTree by Hilton and HP Hotels Management Inc. today announced the opening of DoubleTree by Hilton Oklahoma City Airport, the brand's first property in the capital city of Oklahoma. Formerly a Cambria Suites, the 134-room fullservice hotel has commenced dramatic property-wide renovations that include stylish design updates and furnishings throughout the lobby, guest rooms and public areas. The hotel is owned by Suenos LLC and managed by HP Hotels Management Inc. is the same team that owns and operates Hilton Garden Inn North Quail Springs in Oklahoma City.

Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown-­‐Bricktown with140 loft-­‐like rooms, offers a vibrant, social atmosphere with an ideal location at NE 2nd Avenue and Walnut. The Aloft features a 24/7 pantry, outdoor pool, indoor spa and sauna, and w xyz smbar. Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown-­‐ Bricktown by Starwood Hotels & Resort Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), is the brand's second hotel in Oklahoma, joining Aloft Tulsa.